KINGSTON, Jamaica — Prime Minister Andrew Holness has issued a warning as Hurricane Melissa moves toward Jamaica urging citizens to take the necessary precautions to stay safe.

Hurricane Melissa is currently located 100 miles south of Kingston. It is expected to turn northward and bring hurricane conditions, including winds of over 100 miles per hour and heavy rainfall, leading to significant flooding across the island.

In an address to the nation, Holness highlighted the risks for low-lying and coastal areas, as well as riverbanks and hillsides, which are particularly vulnerable to flash floods and landslides. He urged residents to prepare for potential evacuations and take steps to protect their homes, especially in high-risk zones.

“I take this opportunity to reinforce to residents of low-lying areas, historically flood-prone areas, gully banks, river banks, hillsides and other vulnerable areas, take precautions to protect your property where possible, prepare your evacuation plan and comply with the evacuation orders,” said Holness in his address.

Holness shared that the Government has activated emergency plans, including a compulsory evacuation order for certain south-coast communities, and has allocated over $400 million for flood mitigation efforts. National agencies such as the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF), the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), and the National Works Agency (NWA) are on high alert to ensure a quick response.

He also emphasised safety, advising the public to avoid flood waters during the storm.

Hurricane Melissa is expected to make landfall Tuesday.